Features Editor, New York Magazine

As a Features Editor at New York Magazine, your primary responsibilities include pitching thought-provoking story ideas across both print and digital platforms. You’ll develop stories from their initial conception to final draft, collaborating closely with both staff writers and freelancers to ensure a diverse array of voices. You will also oversee the editorial direction of the magazine, work with art and social media teams for optimal presentation, and produce three to five new feature stories each month.

To become a Features Editor at New York Magazine, you should have a minimum of four years of experience in journalism, specifically in editing long-form stories. An extensive network of writers and a deep understanding of various cultural and news topics are essential, along with the ability to work in a fast-paced digital environment. You also need a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy and quality in every piece.

The work culture at New York Magazine is vibrant and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on creativity, diversity, and inclusion. As a Features Editor, you’ll be part of a community that fosters essential conversations about contemporary topics, engaging with talented colleagues across various disciplines. The environment encourages innovative storytelling and value the contributions of every team member.

A Features Editor at New York Magazine contributes to storytelling by initially pitching creative story ideas and guiding them through development. You'll work with writers to hone their narratives, providing constructive feedback to elevate the content. Your insights into cultural trends and strong news judgment will shape the way stories are told, ensuring that each piece resonates with our audience while meeting high editorial standards.

As a Features Editor at New York Magazine, there are numerous opportunities for growth within a leading media company like Vox Media. You will have access to a network of accomplished professionals, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to enhance your editing and storytelling skills. Additionally, you can explore various facets of digital journalism, expanding your expertise and influence in the media landscape.

When describing my editing process as a Features Editor, I emphasize the importance of collaboration. I begin by deeply engaging with the initial draft, identifying the core message and potential improvements. I work closely with the writer, offering constructive feedback and suggesting revisions to enhance clarity and impact. I also ensure that the story aligns with our editorial vision, all while maintaining an open dialogue for creative input.

Generating story ideas for New York Magazine involves a blend of staying updated on trending topics and listening to cultural conversations. I prioritize curiosity, regularly reading diverse sources, and engaging with our audience for insight. Collaborating with writers, I brainstorm ideas that are not only intriguing but also align with our editorial focus to spark meaningful dialogue.

To effectively manage deadlines and ensure timely publication, I develop a clear timeline for each story, allowing ample time for revisions and feedback. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, utilizing project management tools to track progress. Additionally, I maintain open communication with the team, staying flexible for any last-minute changes while keeping the ultimate delivery date in mind.

SEO plays a crucial role in my work as a Features Editor as it helps enhance the visibility of our stories online. I collaborate with our SEO team to identify trending keywords and phrases related to our content, ensuring that our headlines and articles are easily discoverable. This not only drives traffic but also engages our audience effectively, which is vital for our digital platforms.

To ensure a diverse range of voices in the stories I edit, I actively seek out writers from various backgrounds and experiences. I prioritize inclusivity by cultivating relationships with a wide pool of freelancers and encouraging different perspectives in storytelling. It’s essential to showcase a multitude of voices to accurately reflect our audience and the cultural landscape.

When revising a writer's first draft, I approach it with an open mind and a focus on the overall narrative arc. I look for clarity, structure, and emotional resonance while asking probing questions to help the writer further develop their ideas. I provide feedback that balances positive reinforcement with constructive criticism, fostering a space for creativity and improvement.

I have a particular fondness for narratives that combine investigative reporting with personal storytelling. Feature stories that dig deep into societal issues while connecting on a personal level resonate with me. They offer the chance to inform, inspire, and engage readers, leading to rich discussions around important topics.

Balancing creativity with adherence to editorial standards is essential in my role as a Features Editor. I encourage innovative ideas while ensuring they align with our established guidelines and brand voice. Open discussions about expectations and flexibility in the creative process help maintain this balance, allowing for originality without sacrificing quality.

My approach to mentoring junior reporters involves providing support and guidance while encouraging their individual voices. I prioritize regular check-ins, constructive feedback sessions, and collaborative brainstorming to help them grow. By sharing my experiences and insights, I aim to empower them to tackle their big features with confidence and creativity.

A strong relationship with freelancers and external contributors is invaluable as it enriches our storytelling. These partnerships bring fresh perspectives and diverse narratives to the table, allowing us to explore a wider array of topics. By nurturing these connections, we can create a vibrant platform that showcases voices that might not otherwise be heard.